FAQ

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning MBA in International Business Consulting at Offenburg University. If your questions/concerns still remain unanswered, do contact us using the Contact Form.

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Who is the target group of the IBC program?

The program addresses potential students who are interested in extensive and comprehensive management know-how at an international level. The objective is for our students to acquire a maximum of knowledge and this is ensured by interactive teaching methods including lectures, case studies and project work.

What kind of jobs/careers does the program prepare you for?

The program focuses on the training and further education of junior managers who wish to take over a leading role at an international level. This group includes traditional consultants but also so-called in-house consultants. But many graduates also move on to project managers, management trainee programmes and others.

Do I need work experience, or will the program admit graduates straight from the University?

Admission may be granted to candidates with at least two years of work experience, who present superior academic credentials and truly outstanding evidence of leadership through professional and personal experiences.

What are the program objectives?

With regard to the above-mentioned target group the program focuses on the acquisition of methodical, social and leading competences.

What are the core competences of the University (in general) and of the MBA- Program management?

Offenburg University of Applied Sciences is marked by a high innovative standard as is demonstrated by new programs like media and information sciences. Since 1998 three master programs have started which are or were all sponsored by the DAAD because of their favourable rating. The currently acquired recognition as an emerging regional business school within QS World MBA Ranking 2012, further adds to the programme credibility, value and that makes it a very attractive return on investment.

Do I have to study a language?

German language courses are offered throughout the IBC program.If you want to learn another language you can join one of the language courses taught at the University of Applied Sciences.

How is the program assessed?

The assessment system has the following elements: • Individual and group assignments, presentation • Oral and written exams

Who will be teaching on the program?

The program is taught by members of the University as well as by visiting professors from abroad and managers (from companies and consultancy firms). All of them have years of experience within the subject specialty.

Does the teaching have a practical orientation?

The program is career oriented. It is designed for people who want to get things done. Therefore, students are faced with a lot of real case studies which have to be completed in teams. Given the fact that more than 80% of the students come from abroad the intercultural aspect plays an important role in this program.

How many hours a week will I need to study?

You will usually be taking 22 - 26 hours per week. You can expect to spend at least the same amount of time in private study with group meetings and group work in addition to this.

Do I need a computer?

No, the University provides access to a computer lab and printer (24 hours a day).

Will I need to buy books?

We provide you with comprehensive course materials, included in the fee. You will need to buy some core textbooks and you will probably want to buy additional books to help you read around the subject. However, the library is also well equipped with materials that you may require.

Do I need to take TOEFL / IELTS?

Yes - only international students who have earned an undergraduate or Master degree in an English-speaking country or native speakers are exempted from this test.

Are transfers accepted?

Basically yes - individual cases are surveyed.

What undergraduate degree subject should I have?

We welcome applications from graduates holding a Bachelor degree in business, commerce, economics, industrial engineering and similar fields.

Can I apply online?

Yes, we have developed an online application system which is user friendly for the applicants and which permits us to screen your application before asking you to send your documents by post (see Admission – Online Application).

Who evaluates the candidates and their application?

This is done by a so-called admission board which meets each year between January and June, evaluates the applications and grants admission.

How long does it typically take for an applicant to get feed-back (in form of an admission or a refusal) after she/he has applied for the program?

Since the admission board meets approximately every six weeks at the beginning of the year the applicant gets a feedback at least eight weeks later. In urgent cases you can ask for your preliminary feedback under ibc(at)hs-offenburg.de or by phone under +49 (0) 7803 / 9698-4443.

Can I contact an admissions counsellor?

Yes - please contact the program coordinator (by phone or email). Details can be found in Home – Contact.

Who should I give as my references?

We ask for references from your current employer or professors who taught you at the University or College.

How does the career placement work?

Every IBC student is responsible for his own to find an internship for the Master Thesis as well as a job after graduation. However, the MBA-IBC office supports the students by giving an input on application writing and interview training, by providing the students with addresses of the companies our graduates have cooperated with before, and by regularly forwarding information about job vacancies and recruitment fairs. Furthermore, MBA-IBC students and graduates may register in the database of Interpool - an agency specialized on helping foreigners to find a job in Germany.

Are there scholarships available?

No, the University does not offer scholarships. Under Admission – Financing your IBC MBA you will find more information about German institutions offering scholarships and its eligibility and requirements.

What about the image of the program?

The image can best be measured by the professional start of our graduates. Up to now, all graduates have found an attractive job immediately after they finished the program; there is a large range of jobs: from investment banking over consulting up to sales management. The fact that various companies and business consultants support the program as network partners reflects how attractive this program is also for them.

Where is the region Offenburg/Gengenbach?

The region is situated centrally in Europe - in the borderland of three countries (France, Switzerland and Germany); shopping in Strasbourg or Freiburg is as hip as hiking in the Black Forest, biking in the Kinzig Valley or skiing in Switzerland.